What happens when your unemployment runs out - NYS Department of Labor next steps?
My regular unemployment benefits are about to exhaust in two weeks and I'm freaking out because I still haven't found work. I've been collecting for about 24 weeks now and the NYS Department of Labor website shows my remaining balance is getting really low. What exactly happens when it hits zero? Do I automatically get put on some kind of extension or do I have to reapply for something else? I've heard people mention EB but I don't really understand what that means. I'm really worried about how I'm going to pay rent if there's a gap in payments. Has anyone been through this recently?
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Edison Estevez
When your regular UI benefits exhaust, you might be eligible for Extended Benefits (EB) but it depends on NYS Department of Labor unemployment rates in your area. EB provides up to 13 additional weeks but only kicks in when unemployment is high enough. You don't need to file a new application - if you're eligible, it should automatically trigger when your regular benefits end. Keep filing your weekly claims even after exhaustion.
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Jibriel Kohn
•So I should keep doing my weekly certifications even if my balance shows $0? That seems weird but I'll do it if that's what you're supposed to do.
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Emily Nguyen-Smith
ugh this happened to me last year and it was SO confusing. the nys department of labor website doesn't really explain it well. i think you have to wait for them to send you a notice about extensions but honestly i never got one and had to call them. good luck getting through on the phone though
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James Johnson
•Actually, you should receive an automated notice about EB eligibility about 2-3 weeks before your benefits exhaust. If you don't get one, definitely call the NYS Department of Labor. The key is to keep filing your weekly claims continuously - don't stop even if your balance shows zero.
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Sophia Rodriguez
I went through this nightmare trying to reach someone at NYS Department of Labor when my benefits ran out. Spent weeks calling and either getting disconnected or put on hold for hours. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to a real person. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Honestly saved my sanity because I was able to get clarification about my EB eligibility without the usual phone hell.
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Jibriel Kohn
•How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money and don't want to pay for something I might be able to do myself.
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Sophia Rodriguez
•I get being worried about costs but for me it was worth it to actually talk to someone who could explain my specific situation. Way better than guessing what was happening with my claim.
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Mia Green
Just wanted to add that even if EB isn't available, you might want to look into other programs. Sometimes there are state-specific assistance programs or you might be eligible to file a new claim if you worked enough since your original claim started. The job search requirements stay the same though - you still need to do your three job contacts per week.
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Jibriel Kohn
•Wait, you can file a NEW claim even if you're already on unemployment? I thought you could only have one at a time.
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Edison Estevez
•You can potentially file a new claim if you've worked and earned enough wages since your current benefit year started. But this is complex - the NYS Department of Labor will compare your old and new claim to see which gives you higher weekly benefits. Definitely something to discuss with an agent.
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Emma Bianchi
Same boat here! Mine runs out next month and I'm terrified. This whole process is so stressful when you're already worried about finding work.
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